Blog Kiosk: 12/5/2017 - Dodgers Links - Some Odds and Ends

Even ballplayers love chasing after autographs.

Featured above is a vintage, dated October 13, 1965, UPI press photo of Dodger outfielder "Sweet" Lou Johnson flagging down soon-to-be Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew for his John Hancock prior to game 6 of the World Series. (eBay auction link) Per the descriptor at the top:

Metropolitan Stadium: Autograph hunter is Dodger outfielder Lou Johnson's pregame role as he seeks signature of Twins slugger Harmon Killebrew here. Johnson had just entered the park and was en route to dressing room when he met Killebrew.

As you may know, the Dodgers would win this World Series the following day -- a game 7 match-up that saw Sandy Koufax throw a three-pitch shutout. BTW, Lou Johnson also hit a solo home run in the fourth inning of that game 7 to score the eventual winning run. Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History: In 1973 the Dodgers traded outfielder Willie Davis to the Expos for relief pitcher Mike Marshall.  Dr. Marshall, as he is known, went on to win the NL Cy Young Award that next season.  He pitched in 106 games, finished 83 of them and recorded a league high 21 saves as a reliever. In 2011 the Dodgers signed free agent utilityman Jerry Hairston to a two-year $6 million contract. He would soon thereafter retire and join the Dodgers broadcast crew.
• Happy Birthday, Jamie McCourt, Gus Mancuso, Don Padgett, Steve Rachunok, Raleigh Aitchison, Billy Shindle & Ray Moss! 

1966 Union 76 Dodgers 45 RPM Record Set Featuring Vin Scully Interviews

With the off-season officially upon us I though I would take a moment to checklist a scarce set from  the mid-60's.  Featured below are the twelve different Union 76 Los Angeles Dodgers 45 RPM records featuring Vin Scully interviewing 24 different players and executives.

As you can see, it includes a colorful sleeve with drawings done by Nicholas Volpe -- known for the various player portraits handed out by Union 76 over the past several decades.  Furthermore, each sleeve includes a portrait drawing of Vin Scully.  Each record has a separate Scully interview on each side, and fans were able to purchase a single record at participating gas stations for $0.49 each with a minimum purchase of gas.

On the right is a advertising poster for the records that had been previously shared by Mark Langill at Dodger Insider (link here).  Apparently, the poster is thought to be the only copy in existence today.

As for the records, I don't have any recordings to share.  If you happen to know where I could listen to any of them please pass that along to me. 

1966

Union 76 - 7” 33RPM Record EP Set - 12 Record Set

Record One

Sandy Koufax/John Kennedy

Blog Kiosk: 9/22/2016 - Dodgers Links - Claire, Kazmir, Maeda and Yasiel Puig's Fantastic Day

All Hail Puig!

Wednesday evening Yasiel Puig decided he was going to drive the Dodgers train, and instead of running off the rails he barrelled through the Giants like there weren't even there.  Last night he showcased his magnificent arm (watch it here), made a highlight sprawling catch on the warning track in right field (watch it here) and powered the Blue Crew by hitting an three-run home run in the first inning of the game (watch it here).  Per Ken Gurnick at MLB.com:

"That's the guy we all know he can be," said third baseman Justin Turner. "He has the potential to be a game-changer. He's an exciting player on both sides of the ball. When he's confident, having fun, playing the game the right way, he makes a big difference. That's why we all wanted him back in September. He can be a key player for us."

He wasn't in the first half of the season, but Puig has responded to an August demotion to Triple-A like it was the wake-up call management intended. Teammates have noticed, and even Puig noticed how they came to his defense Monday night when Bumgarner told Puig not to look at him and the benches cleared.

"I really appreciate the way the team welcomed me since my return, and I try to show I'm grateful for the opportunity," said Puig. "It was nice for them to wait for me after the catch."

As a result of Puig's herculean efforts the Dodgers defeated the Giants 9-3 and increased their lead in the West to six games.  They also dropped their "magic number" to five games.  BTW, his play on the field earned him the teams WWE-styled "player of the game" belt, as evidenced by a photo tweeted by NBC reporter Michael Duarte.

Photo above via Juan Ocampo/LA Dodgers 2016.  Go here to check out more pics by Juan and Jon SooHoo from yesterdays game.  Below are more links to check out:

• This Day in Dodgers History:  In 1926 Brooklyn Hall of Famer Zach Wheat hit his last home run as a Dodger.  While near second base he severly pulls a muscle and rest nearly five minutes before completing his obligatory run around the bases.  This marks the longest home run trot in history.  In 1986 Fernando Valenzuela became the first Mexican ballplayer to win twenty games in a season.
• Happy Birthday, Doug Camilli, "Sweet" Lou Johnson and Tommy Lasorda!

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Scott Schoenweis and Several Dodgers in Rancho Cucamonga

Here are this weekends autograph opportunities and events throughout the Southland. As always, be sure to check the Blue Heaven Calendar for other events (a link can always be found on the tab at the top of this page, just left of center), and always confirm with the establishment. Everything is subject to change.  Please email me with any tips about upcoming events in Southern California.  As the rest of the week progresses I'll update this post with other events (if there are any) as I become aware of them.  Also, I don't always list every event below, so be sure to check my Calendar.  I always try to favor free signing events over paying events.  Click on any pic to embiggen.

-------------------

Weekend Autograph Opportunities: Busy! - 14 Past, Current and Future Dodger Players

Here are this weekends autograph opportunities and events throughout the Southland. As always, be sure to check the Blue Heaven Calendar for other events (a link can always be found on the tab at the top of this page, just left of center), and always confirm with the establishment. Everything is subject to change.  Please email me with any tips about upcoming events in Southern California.  As the rest of the week progresses I'll update this post with other events (if there are any) as I become aware of them.  Also, I don't always list every event below, so be sure to check my Calendar.  I always try to favor free signing events over paying events.  Click on any pic to embiggen.

This might be the busiest weekend for Dodger autographs ever!  Holy Moly!

---------------------------

Dodger Stadium will again be hosting a holiday sale at the Top of the Park store and three former players will be there to sign autographs for you - FOR FREE!  Remember   Go here for more information.

Saturday, December 5, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.                      Dennis Powell
12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.                        Tim Leary
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.                          Eric Karros

---------------------------

If you're up near Santa Maria on Friday I'd suggest checking this out.  For a $20 donation you can get an Steve Sax autograph at Cugini's Pizzeria & Trattoria.  Go here for information.

Cugini's Pizzeria & Trattoria
230 E Betteravia Rd
Santa Maria, CA 93455

---------------------------

A ton of Dodgers will be at Frank & Sons on Saturday.  Go here or here for information.

• FREE Autograph available of Jim "Mudcat" Grant.  He will also be selling his book and selling a statue of himself.  ($30. paperback - $40. hardcover - autograph included) (Jim will also be selling a statue of himself @ $40.) Please note that free autographs for Mr. Grant are limited to as many as he can sign in one hour.  stage time:  9:30am - 10:30am 
• Don Newcombe stage time:  11:30am - 1:00pm  NOTE:  Mr. Newcombe will no longer sign bobbleheads and figurines 
• Todd Hollandsworth stage time:  12:30pm - 1:30pm 
• Steve Garvey stage time:  1:00pm - 2:00pm
• Danny Heep stage time:  12noon - 1:00pm
• "Sweet" Lou Johnson  stage time:  10:30am - 11:30am
• Tommy Davis stage time:  10:30am - 11:30am
• Paul LoDuca stage time:  1:00pm - 2:00pm
• Jerry Reuss.  He will also be selling his popular book "Bring in the Right Hander!" stage time:  11:00am - 12noon

Frank & Son Collectible Show
19649 San Jose Ave
City of Industry, CA 91748

---------------------------

Dodgers catching and infield prospect Austin Barnes will be signing at Bobblemania on Sunday.  Go here for information.
Bobblemania
2334 South Atlantic Boulevard, Suite A
Monterey Park, CA 91754

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Blog Kiosk: 9/9/2015 - Dodger Links - Dodger Fans Own Southern California

There has been nothing but a sea of Blue during this roadtrip, and I couldn't be more astonished and prouder.  The Dodger faithful, with a streaking team in tow, invaded our neighbors to the south, and more or less took over those foreign lands.

Fans went to San Diego and out-screamed and out-cheered the depressed Padres.  Heck, from any one's vantage point those games looked and sounded like home games for Los Angeles.  Then we came to Orange County, the lowly stepchild of LA, and made ourselves at home.  Check out what Josh Mayhood at Halos Heaven had to say about it:

It was the message sent loud and clear from the beginning of the series: the Angels are overmatched, and so are their fans. The Angels are getting owned in this series, both on the field and in the cheering from the stands. Can the Halos faithful be blamed?

Ha!  Those are some sweet beautiful words.

Photo above was grabbed via USA Today (Victor Decolongon/Getty Images).  BTW, the Dodgers "Magic Number" is now at 16.  Below are more links to check out:

• Jon Weisman at Dodger Insider takes an early peek at the 2016 Dodger schedule, here.
• Via Matthew Kory at FanGraphs, "Appreciating Vin Scully Appreciating Clayton Kershaw."
• Yasmani Grandal appears to be OK, via a tweet from Alanna Rizzo:

Grandal saw doctor to have shoulder examined. Very inflamed but will not require surgery at this point. Will play through it when he can.

— Alanna Rizzo (@alannarizzo) September 8, 2015

• Eric Stephen at True Blue LA reminds us that today is the 50th anniversary of Sandy Koufax's perfect game, here.  You can listen to the entire 9th inning of this game here (Hat Tip: @Dodgers_History on twitter).  Mark Langill at Dodger Insider also reminds us of the importance of Lou Johnson in Koufax's perfect game, here.
• Via Ken Gurnick at MLB.com, "Jansen's presence is vital to Dodgers' success."
  

  "On nights like tonight, he puts out the fire and allows you to win a game," said Ellis. "I just know he's really good every time he comes in. There aren't that many guys who can close year after year after year, only a couple in baseball right now, and Kenley does it with mostly one pitch. It says a lot about that pitch and says a lot about his confidence and ability to attack."

• Via Mark Saxon at ESPN, "Clayton Kershaw wants Dodgers to keep their 'foot on the gas'"

"You've got to keep your foot on the gas. You can't let up," Kershaw said. "Even if we do clinch, you've got home-field advantage to fight for, so just keep going until October-whatever. Then, when the season ends, start all over again."

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Game Two of NLDS Series Against Cardinals - Scheduled Autograph Signings, Game Give Aways and Other Stuff!

Game 2 of the NLDS series starts Saturday afternoon against the St. Louis Cardinal, and several olde-tyme Dodgers will be in the house to sign free autographs for fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this series.

Radio:
You can listen to the games on the Dodgers radio network at AM570.  Vin Scully will call the first three innings and the final three innings of each Dodger postseason game.  Steiner and Monday will call the middle three innings.   The Dodgers’ Spanish-language radio broadcast on Univision America KTNQ 1020 AM will be led by Jarrín with Valenzuela, color commentator, who will call all postseason games along with Yñiguez. The games also can be heard in Korean on Radio Korea AM 1540.  “Dodger Talk” on Dodgers Radio AM570 will also continue throughout the postseason and will feature Jorge Jarrín, Kevin Kennedy and David Vassegh.

Parking:
If you are driving to any of the games please purchase your parking tickets in advance.  Prices for advance purchase is $10 and parking at the gate is $20 for the Division Series.  The Dodgers also will offer premium parking in advance at $35 and for $50 at the gate for Division Series.  For further information on Dodger parking, visit www.dodgers.com/parking or call the Dodgers’ ticket office at 323-DODGERS.  

Dodger Express Shuttle:
As always, fans can use the Dodger Express shuttle bus to get to the games.  It will run from the usual location at Union Station and also expands to the Harbor Gateway Transit Center in the SouthBay.  Go here for more information.

Umpire Info:
In case you were curious the umpire crew chief for the series will be Dale Scott, who will be on the field with Eric Cooper, Rob Drake, regular season crew chief Jerry Layne, Jerry Meals and Alan Porter.  CB Bucknor, Chris Conroy, Ed Hickox and Brian O'Nora will serve in the Replay Center during the Division Series.

Extreme Loaded Dog:
BTW, the Extreme Loaded Dog concession stands will be making the Playoff Dog, an all-beef hot dog on a Pretzel Roll topped with Pastrami, pickle spears and Oktoberfest mustard.  It will be available Monday through Wednesday at extreme loaded dog concession stands on the Field, Loge and Reserve levels.  See a pic of it on the right.

---------------

Saturday, October 4th at 6:37 PM

Lance Lynn vs. Zack Greinke

Tonight's game starts at 6:37 PM.  Auto gates open at 3:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 4:00 PM.  It will be televised on the MLB Network.

The first 50,000 fans in attendance will receive a blue rally towel.  See it on the left.

Dodger legend Maury Wills will throw the ceremonial first pitch. He currently serves as special instructor with the club. Wills spent parts of 12 seasons with the Dodgers and 14 in the Majors.  RCA recording artist Tinashe will perform the national anthem.

Former Dodgers Derrel Thomas (in right-field pavilion plaza) and “Sweet” Lou Johnson (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 4:00 PM to 6:15 PM.  Pregame entertainment will also include face painters in the right-field pavilion plaza and musical entertainment in the right and left-field reserve plazas. Dodgers Radio KLAC AM 570’s Dodger Talk with David Vassegh will broadcast live from the left-field pavilion plaza at 5:00 PM.

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Robert Warren of Palmdale. He has served deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan and is currently assigned to the Wounded Warrior Battalion Unit West recovering from injuries sustained on both deployments. Warren’s accolades include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a Combat V device for valor and two Combat Action Ribbons.  Warren will be presented with a flag flown over Dodger Stadium by U.S. Navy Veteran Sean Gass, Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch and Co-Chair of Bank of America’s Military Support and Assistance Group.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) will hold a silent auction on the Club level by the Vin Scully Press Box. The auction ends at 8:15 p.m. with more than 25 items up for bid, including a Clayton Kershaw autographed baseball, Zack Greinke autographed photo and Adrian Gonzalez autographed LA Dodger jersey. All proceeds will benefit LADF and its programs in sports and recreation, education and literacy and health and wellness which help children and families throughout the greater Los Angeles region.
• There will also be a BBQ Beef Brisket Burger (one-third pound burger topped with American cheese, Think Blue BBQ beef brisket, Stout BBQ sauce and fried onions and pickles) available at Elysian Park Grills on the Loge, Reserve and Top Deck levels and Field level Dodger Dog Stands at sections 22 and 23.   A Think Blue BBQ “Grand Slam” Playoff Platter (beef brisket, pulled pork, roasted corn, potato salad, coleslaw and corn bread) is avaialble at Think Blue BBQ at the left-field pavilion plaza.  A Gelato Ice Cream Sandwich, Lasorda’s gelato ice cream smashed between two chocolate chip cookies, will be available at Tommy Lasorda’s Trattoria located at the right-field pavilion plaza.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Padres Series Starts Tonight - Scheduled Autograph Signings, Game Give Aways and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts this evening against the San Diego Padres, and several old-tyme Dodgers will be in the house to sign free autographs for fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

For this homestand the Dodgers have created a special Taco Dog.  It's an all-beef hot dog topped with seasoned beef, cheddar cheese, lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream and jalapeños.  It is available through Wednesday at extreme loaded dog concession stands on the Field, Loge and Reserve levels.  

---------------

Thurday, July 10th at 7:10 PM
RHP Odrisamer Despaigne vs. LHP Clayton Kershaw

Tonight's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.  Hello Kitty strikes again!  The first 40,000 fans will receive a Hello Kitty Travel Mug.  See it on the right.

Hello Kitty will meet with fans from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the left-field pavilion plaza. Also, Dodgers Radio AM 570 FOX Sports LA “Petros and Money” will be broadcasting live from the left-field pavilion plaza from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Actress Kate Walsh, best known as Dr. Addison Montgomery on “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Private Practice,” will throw the ceremonial first pitch.  Singer, songwriter, producer and pianist Sheléa Frazier will perform the national anthem. Frazier recently performed at the White House and the Library of the Congress. 

Former Dodgers Tim Leary (in right-field pavilion plaza) and “Sweet” Lou Johnson (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. 

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Kevin Price. Watching the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001 prompted Price to join the Marine Corps after high school. He is assigned to the 7th Engineer Support Battalion based at Camp Pendleton which provides engineering support to the Marine Expeditionary Force including Explosive Ordnance disposal, mobility and survivability enhancements. Price serves as an Engineer Equipment and small craft maintenance such as cranes, Zodiac reconnaissance crafts and bridge boats.  His deployments include Okinawa, Japan and Fallujah, Iraq. His accolades include the National Defense Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Medal. 

---------------

Friday, July 11th at 7:10 PM
RHP Jesse Hahn vs. RHP Dan Haren

Friday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.  It is Friday Night Fireworks, so fans will be able to go down onto the field after the game.  The theme for the evening are super heroes.

Two members of the US Soccer team that recently returned from the 2014 World Cup in Brazil will throw the ceremonial first pitch.  “American Idol” season six runner-up Blake Lewis will perform the national anthem.  Malcolm Smith, Superbowl MVP with the Seattle Seahawks, will throw an honorary first pitch.

Former Dodgers Dennis Powell (in right-field pavilion plaza) and Al “The Bull” Ferrara (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Also, both of them will be signing in the Stadium Club from approximately 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Army Private First Class (PFC) Fred Gomez of Bakersfield. Gomez was drafted in 1943 and was initially trained at a machine gunner and went on to become a medic who provided life-saving medical care to wounded soldiers. Gomez served with the 164th Regiment deploying to New Caledonia, Fiji and the Philippines. Following his Army service, Gomez fulfilled a life-long dream by working as a security guard at Dodger Stadium from 1963-1965. His accolades include two Purple Heart Medals, the Philippine Liberation Medal and a Bronze Star.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) will hold a silent auction on the Club level by the Vin Scully Press Box. The auction ends at 8:45 p.m. with more than 25 items up for bid, including a Yasiel Puig autographed baseball, Dee Gordon autographed photo and Brandon League autographed game-used #42 LA Dodgers Jersey from Jackie Robinson Day. The LADF will feature two autographed game-used #42 LA Dodger player or coach jerseys from Jackie Robinson Day at each silent auction for the remainder of the season. All proceeds will benefit LADF and its programs in sports and recreation, education and literacy and health and wellness which help children and families throughout the greater Los Angeles region.

---------------

Saturday, July 12th at 7:10 pm
RHP Ian Kennedy vs. TBD

Saturday's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.

It is another Dodger bobblehead day. The first 50,000 fans will receive a Pee Wee Reese and Roy Campanella bobblehead.  As you may know, this bobblehead commemorates Roy Campanella Night on May 7, 1959 at the LA Coliseum.  A record crowd of 93,103 fans packed the house that evening; setting a MLB record for attendance.  See the bobblehead on the right.

John Lloyd Young will perform the national anthem.  Boxer Gennady Golovkin will throw an honorary first pitch.

Former Dodgers Lee Lacy (in right-field pavilion plaza) and Derrel Thomas (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.  Also, both of them will be signing in the Stadium Club from approximately 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Maria Gomez. She will also be the recipient of an authenticated flag and display presented by Bank of America. Gomez will be honored with a piece of Dodger history, a flag that has flown over Dodger Stadium.

---------------

Sunday, July 13th at 1:10 PM
RHP Tyson Ross vs. LHP Hyun-Jin Ryu

Sunday's game starts at 1:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 10:30 AM, and stadium gates open at 11:00 AM.  The first 40,000 fans will receive a Dodgers portable speaker.  See it on the right.

Actor, director and producer Rob Reiner will throw the ceremonial first pitch.  Comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias will throw an honorary first pitch and the national anthem will be performed by actor U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant JW Cortes.

Former Dodgers Al Downing (in right-field pavilion plaza) and Bill Ashley (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Also, both of them will be signing in the Stadium Club from approximately 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM.

Viva Los Dodgers begins in the Dodger parking lot at 11:00 AM.  Dennis Powell and comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias will be there to sign autographs for fans.

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant JW Cortes. Cortes Cortes served with the Marine Corps Embassy Security Group which provides security at designated U.S. Diplomatic and Consular facilities and was assigned to American Embassies in Nairobi and Australia. In 2003, Cortes was part of the initial troop movement into Iraq. He served 13 years active duty and reserve before moving on to serve with the NYPD. His accolades include the Combat Action Ribbon, Marine of the Year and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.
• Sunday’s “Héroe de la Comunidad” honoree at Viva Los Dodgers is Dunia Perich, Family Services Director, The Bresee Foundation, who emigrated to the US from Honduras in 1993 and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from California State University Northridge. She has been working at Bresee Foundation since 2007, assisting families with supportive services, coordinating health and nutrition classes, mental health, and community workshops.  As a certified Parenting Instructor, Dunia has been teaching Parenting Classes at Virgil Middle School and Bresee for the past four years. Dunia has also been a mentor to Bresee youth, assisting with homework, following up with grades, and arranging and attending parent-teacher conference meetings.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) will have a Mystery Bag fundraiser at Viva Los Dodgers at the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation Tent. For a $40 donation, fans can get an official Major League baseball signed by one of eight Dodger Alumni featured, including Orel Hersisher, Tommy Lasorda, Fernando Valenzuela and current players including Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford and Dee Gordon. Only 68 Mystery Bags available. All proceeds will benefit LADF and its programs in sports and recreation, education and literacy and health and wellness which help children and families throughout the greater Los Angeles region.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) will hold a silent auction on the Club level by the Vin Scully Press Box. The auction ends at 2:45 p.m. with more than 25 items up for bid, including a Clayton Kershaw autographed baseball, Adrian Gonzalez autographed photo and Brian Wilson autographed game-used #42 LA Dodgers Jersey from Jackie Robinson Day. The LADF will feature two autographed game-used #42 LA Dodger player or coach jerseys from Jackie Robinson Day at each silent auction for the remainder of the season. All proceeds will benefit LADF and its programs in sports and recreation, education and literacy and health and wellness which help children and families throughout the greater Los Angeles region.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Indians Series Starts Tonight - Scheduled Autograph Signings, Game Give Aways and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts this evening against the Colorado Rockies, and several old-time Dodgers will be in the house to sign free autographs for fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

The July issue of Dodger Insider is now available.  See the cover on the right.  It features stories on Beckett's comback season, follow-up on the no-hitters by Beckett and Kershaw, an inside look at the 2014 draft, the return of Dee Gordon and Brandon League from difficult 2013 seasons and a piece on Brooklyn Dodger Dixie Walker.

---------------

Monday June 30th at 7:10 PM
RHP Corey Kluber vs. RHP Dan Haren

Tonight's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM. Dodger fan and “Project Runway” winning model Kalyn Hemphill will perform the national anthem.

Former Dodgers Dennis Powell (in right-field pavilion plaza) and Kenny Landreaux (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. 

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Army Major General Paul E. Funk II. Watching his father return home from serving in Vietnam, Funk decided to follow in the same footsteps as his father, joined the Army and was commissioned in 1984. Funk is the Commanding General for the 1st Infantry Division known as “the Big Red One” at Fort Riley, Kansas. He has been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. His accolades include the Legion of Merit with three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, The Combat Action Badge and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. Bank of America will be presenting an authenticated flag and display case to Funk. He will be honored with a piece of Dodger history, a flag that has flown over Dodger Stadium. Gregg Hall an Army veteran and now Bank of America Regional Director of Global Corporate Security will present the flag on behalf of Bank of America.

---------------

Tuesday, July 1st at 7:10 PM
RHP Justin Masterson vs. RHP Josh Beckett

Tonight's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.  The first 40,000 fans will receive a Don Newcombe adult sized replica Brooklyn Dodger jersey.  See it on the right.

Don Newcombe will throw the ceremonial first pitch Tuesday and closer Kenley Jansen will catch his first pitch.  Chris Mann, classically trained singer-songwriter who finished 4th on “The Voice” season 2 on Team Christina Aguilera will perform the national anthem.

Former Dodgers Tim Leary (in right-field pavilion plaza) and “Sweet” Lou Johnson (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. 

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Air Force Colonel John Tree, who is currently serving with the Air Force Reserve as a Key Senior Leader to the Director of Resource Integration at the Pentagon. Following in his father’s footsteps, Tree joined the Air Force following his graduation from the Air Force Academy and served in active duty for seven years. Throughout his career he has been deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, twice to Haiti and Germany and in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Tree’s accolades include the Humanitarian Service Medal with one Device, NATO Medal and the Air Force Expeditionary Service Medal.  

---------------

Wednesday, July 2nd at 12:10 PM
RHP Trevor Bauer vs. LHP Hyun-Jin Ryu

This afternoon's game starts at 12:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 9:30 AM, and stadium gates open at 10:00 AM.

American Bladerunner, Blake Leeper, a Silver and Bronze medalist in the 2012 Paralympic Games in London will throw the ceremonial first pitch.

Former Dodgers Matt Luke (in right-field pavilion plaza) and Derrel Thomas (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Army Sergeant Alvin Blinder, a longtime Dodger fan. Blinder was drafted in 1943 to lend support to World War II efforts and served with the 16th infantry division for General Patton’s 3rd Army, serving as communication between platoons, Company Headquarters and the First Battalion Headquarters. Sergeant Blinder fought in Metz Chateau Salins, Vic-sur-Seille France defeating part of the German First Army. Blinder’s accolades include the Combat Infantry Badge and the Purple Heart.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *

Cardinals Series Starts Tonight - Scheduled Autograph Signings, Game Give Aways and Other Stuff!

The next homestand starts this evening against the Colorado Rockies, and several old-time Dodgers will be in the house to sign free autographs for fans.  Below are the scheduled autograph opportunities and other odds and ends for this upcoming homestand.

For this series the Dodgers have created a special St. Louis Dog.  It's an all-beef hot dog topped with braised beef short ribs, BBQ sauce and fried onions.  It is available through Sunday at extreme loaded dog concession stands on the Field, Loge and Reserve levels.

---------------

Thursday, June 26th at 7:10 PM
RHP Adam Wainwright vs. RHP Josh Beckett

Tonight's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.  It is a bobblehead night!  The first 50,000 fans will receive a Brian Wilson bobblehead.  See it on the right.

Trey Songz, Grammy-nominated and BET Award-winning artist will throw the ceremonial first pitch.  “Back to the Future” star Christopher Lloyd will announce the Dodgers’ starting lineup. “Back to the Future” is Wilson’s favorite movie.

Former Dodgers Kenny Landreaux (in right-field pavilion plaza) and "Sweet" Lou Johnson (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. 

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Navy Lieutenant Andres Otero. Otero is the son of Cuban refugees and is based at Port Hueneme, CA where he works in testing and evaluation of weapons systems. Otero has been deployed twice while onboard the USS Nicholas to Iraq and Afghanistan. 

---------------

Friday, June 27th at 7:10 PM
RHP Carlos Martinez vs. LHP Hyun-Jin Ryu

Tonight's game starts at 7:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 4:30 PM, and stadium gates open at 5:00 PM.  It is Friday Night Fireworks, so fans will be able to go down onto the field after the game.

The Dodgers will celebrate Mormon Night for the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints. More than 4,000 members of the church from Los Angeles to San Bernardino will be in attendance for this annual event.  Elder David A. Bednar, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, will throw the honorary first pitch.

Former Dodgers Derrel Thomas (in right-field pavilion plaza) and Billy Ashley (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. 

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant Angel Peraza of Palmdale. He enlisted in 2000 and serves with the 30th Civil Engineers Squadron at Vandenberg Air Force Base. Peraza is responsible for disaster preparedness, hazardous material emergency response training and ensuring the base’s ability to withstand and recover from an attack during wartime and natural disasters.  He has served deployments to Qatar, Japan and Kyrgyzstan. Peraza’s accolades include the Air Force Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Award and a Good Conduct Medal.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) will hold a silent auction on the Club level by the Vin Scully Press Box. The auction ends at 8:45 p.m. with more than 25 items up for bid, including a Zack Greinke autographed baseball, Yasiel Puig autographed photo and Scott Van Slyke autographed game-used #42 LA Dodgers Jersey from Jackie Robinson Day. The LADF will feature two autographed game-used #42 LA Dodger player or coach jerseys from Jackie Robinson Day at each silent auction for the remainder of the season. All proceeds will benefit LADF and its programs in sports and recreation, education and literacy and health and wellness which help children and families throughout the greater Los Angeles region.

---------------

Saturday, June 28th at 4:15 PM
TBD vs. RHP Zack Greinke

Tonight's game starts at 4:15 PM.  Auto gates open at 1:45 PM, and stadium gates open at 2:15 PM. BTW, this game will be televised on Fox.

The national anthem will be performed by Dodger fan Tony DeFranco. Melissa McCarthy’s, who is starring and wrote, along with her husband, Director Ben Falcone, “Tammy,” will be on hand for the ceremonial first pitch. McCarthy will also announce the Dodgers’ starting lineup.  The California Youth Spirit Corps (CYSC) will perform their award-winning routines in a special pre-game performance.

I apologize in advance for having incomplete information regarding Dodger autograph signings on this day.  From my understanding, Al Downing will be on on-hand to sign, but I am uncertain if it is in the right or left field pavilion areas.  Also, it is likely that another player will be there as well, but I do not know who that is.  What I do know is that Saturday is Al Downing's birthday, so be sure to wish him a Happy Birthday!  Heck, it would be great if a crowd of Dodger fans serenaded him.  (This is all subject to change since the info I received was confusing, and I have yet to hear back from my follow-up inquiries.)

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Army Corporal Cecil Belmares. Belmares volunteered for service in 1942 following the attack on Pearl Harbor. He served with the 29th Infantry Division, 116th Regiment on board the Queen Mary which had been converted to a war ship to transport troops during World War II.  He served in Central Europe, Germany and in Normandy, France where his regiment took part in the historic attack on Omaha Beach, known as D-Day. Belmares’ accolades include the Presidential Unit Citation for actions of the 116th Infantry on D-Day and the Combat Action Badge.  He is a lifelong Dodger fan and his favorite player is his fellow soldier Jackie Robinson.

---------------

Sunday, June 29th at 1:10 PM
 TBD vs. LHP Clayton Kershaw

Tonight's game starts at 1:10 PM.  Auto gates open at 10:30 AM, and stadium gates open at 11:00 AM.  The first 15,000 ticketed kids 14 years of age or younger will receive an Adrian Gonzalez Replica Jersey.  Check it out on the right.

The national anthem will be performed by Elliot Yamin as part of the Dodgers’ 15th annual Jewish Community Day.  Fans who purchased the special ticket package will receive a Dodgers-in-Hebrew baseball cap.  See it on the left.  This ticket package is already sold out.  Kosher food will be available to all fans in the Left Field Reserve section, including Kosher Dogs, Jalapeno Kosher Dogs and Italian Beef Sausages. 

Viva Los Dodgers will take place at the historic 76 station and begins at 11:00 AM.  Former Dodger Lee Lacy will be signing autographs there.

Former Dodgers Tommy Davis (in right-field pavilion plaza) and "Sweet" Lou Johnson (in left-field pavilion plaza) will be signing autographs for fans from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Davis, Johnson and Lee Lacy will sign from approximately 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Stadium Club.

• The Veteran of the Game presented by Bank of America is U.S. Army Command Master Sergeant Larry Montes. Montes enlisted in 1978 and is assigned to the 104th Regiment, 7th Battalion in Bell, CA. He has served deployments in support of Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield and to Balad, Iraq. Montes’ accolades include the Bronze Star and the Army Achievement Medal.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) will have a Mystery Bag fundraiser at Viva Los Dodgers at the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation Tent. For a $40 donation, fans can get an  official Major League baseball signed by one of ten Dodger Alumni featured, including Don Newcombe, Tommy Lasorda, Fernando Valenzuela and current players including Yasiel Puig and Adrian Gonzalez. Only 82 Mystery Bags available. All proceeds will benefit LADF and its programs in sports and recreation, education and literacy and health and wellness which help children and families throughout the greater Los Angeles region.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) will hold a silent auction on the Club level by the Vin Scully Press Box. The auction ends at 2:45 p.m. with more than 25 items up for bid, including a Clayton Kershaw autographed baseball, a Kid-Take-The-Field Experience for Wednesday, July 30 vs. the Atlanta Braves and Josh Beckett autographed game-used #42 LA Dodgers Jersey from Jackie Robinson Day. The LADF will feature two autographed game-used #42 LA Dodger player or coach jerseys from Jackie Robinson Day at each silent auction for the remainder of the season. All proceeds will benefit LADF and its programs in sports and recreation, education and literacy and health and wellness which help children and families throughout the greater Los Angeles region.

* Please follow on twitter @ernestreyes *

* Like Dodgers Blue Heaven on facebook *

* Dodgers Blue Heaven home page *